Tift County Schools collaborate with Southwell Physicians for Women on early literacy initiative
Tifton, Ga. (2/13/26) – Tift County Schools are partnering with Southwell Physicians for Women (SPFW) on a literacy initiative designed to boost early learning and family engagement. A part of the Southwell healthcare system, SPFW is an obstetrics/gynecology practice based in Tifton and is the area’s largest maternity care provider.
Tift County Schools will supply special gift packages to SPFW for distribution to all expecting parents. The gift packages will include a literacy-themed “Read to Me” onesie, an age-appropriate children’s book for parents to read to newborns and infants, and a tip card with simple, parent-friendly ideas. Expecting parents will also receive a QR code linking to a welcome video at www.tiftschools.com/page/early-literacy from Superintendent Natalie Gore with Tift County Schools explaining the initiative and encouraging participation.
“Early literacy refers to the knowledge and skills children develop in speaking, listening, reading, and writing long before they actually learn to read and write,” said Mrs. Gore. “These early literacy skills form the foundation for all future learning and are crucial for success in school and beyond.”
Mrs. Gore said babies start learning language skills from the moment they are born. Hearing words helps their brains make important connections needed for reading. It also helps to build a strong bond between parents and their child, which is essential for the child’s growth.
“Literacy skills start before babies can talk and continue as they grow into toddlers and preschoolers,” Mrs. Gore said.
Dr. Shannon Price, obstetrician/gynecologist and SPFW Medical Director, said the providers and staff at SPFW are enthusiastic about working with Tift County Schools on the early literacy initiative.
“Many parents wonder if reading to a newborn is sensible,” said Dr. Price. “The answer is a resounding yes. A newborn is absorbing the sound of the parent’s voice, learning to associate reading time with comfort, and beginning their literacy journey from day one. As babies grow, reading together evolves. Newborns recognize the parent’s voice and find comfort in the rhythm of language.”
Dr. Price said the time parents invest in reading to their baby pays dividends for years to come.
“Children who are read to regularly in infancy and as toddlers enter kindergarten with larger vocabularies, stronger pre-reading skills, and increased motivation to read independently,” said Dr. Price. “They develop stronger comprehension abilities and perform better academically across all subjects. This early literacy initiative is a worthwhile endeavor, and we are proud to be a part of it. This is a great benefit to our maternity patients and their newborns, and we thank the school system for including us.”
About Tift County Schools
A public school district in Tifton, Ga., Tift County Schools serves approximately 7,631 students in Pre-K through 12th grade with a 17:1 student-teacher ratio. The district operates 13 schools, featuring a 2025 graduation rate of 88.59 percent, which exceeds the state average. It is recognized for its comprehensive academic, athletic, and arts programs, including specialized support for students with Autism. Please visit www.tiftschools.com for more information.
About Southwell Physicians for Women
Based in Tifton, Ga., Southwell Physicians for Women is a leading OB/GYN practice offering comprehensive women’s health services. From pre-conception counseling to maternity care and well-woman care to gynecological surgery and menopause management, SPFW provides expertise and exceptional care to women in South Georgia. SPFW is a part of Southwell, a top integrated healthcare system dedicated to delivering quality and compassionate care in South Georgia. Please visit www.MySouthwell.com for more information.
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